How do I find my height above sea level?

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SUMMARY

Finding your height above sea level with centimeter precision requires specialized equipment, specifically high-end GPS systems. Top-tier GPS systems can achieve an accuracy of 1 to 1.5 cm, but they come at a significant cost of approximately $20,000 due to the need for multiple units. Standard handheld GPS units, such as the Garmin E-Trex, provide much lower accuracy, typically around 3-5 meters. Additionally, vertical accuracy is generally about half that of horizontal accuracy, meaning if horizontal accuracy is 1 cm, vertical accuracy will average around 2 cm.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of GPS technology and its accuracy metrics
  • Familiarity with high-end GPS systems and their costs
  • Knowledge of vertical vs. horizontal accuracy in geolocation
  • Experience with handheld GPS devices like the Garmin E-Trex
NEXT STEPS
  • Research high-end GPS systems for precise elevation measurement
  • Explore the specifications and accuracy of Garmin E-Trex models
  • Learn about the principles of GPS accuracy and error sources
  • Investigate alternative methods for measuring elevation, such as barometric altimeters
USEFUL FOR

Geographers, surveyors, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone requiring precise elevation data for projects or activities.

TSN79
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I'm under the impression that this takes special equipment? We're talking centimeter precision by the way. Shouldn't I be able to get this from some App by now?!
 
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It is specialist equip! :)
Top of the line GSP systems I work with will give you 1 to 1.5 cm (10 - 15mm)accuracy at a cost of $20,000 or so because multiple units are needed for that sort of accuracy

standard handheld GSP units like the Garmin E-Trex etc will give down to maybe 3-5 metres of accuracy

Dave

Ohh I should actually qualify that ... We find that the vertical accuracy averages ~ half the quality of horizontal accuracy. So for a horizontal accuracy of 1cm, which under good conditions is quite achievable,
the vertical accuracy will be ~ 2cm
 

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